Amid concerns about a possible shortage of LPG cylinders, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday urged citizens not to panic, saying the government is taking all necessary steps to ensure India’s energy security.
Speaking at the NXT Summit in New Delhi, the Prime Minister said certain individuals are trying to create unnecessary panic around LPG availability.
“Some people are trying to create panic on LPG. Without making a political point, I’ll say they are exposing themselves. Everyone has a key role to play in how we deal with such crises — whether political parties, media, youth, cities or villages,” Modi said.
He emphasised that the current energy challenges are part of a global crisis triggered by the ongoing war, which has affected countries across the world.
Global Energy Crisis Affecting Many Nations
Modi noted that no country has remained untouched by the global disruption in energy supplies.
“To a greater or lesser extent, everyone is affected by this crisis. India is also leaving no stone unturned to address it, and we are making efforts at various levels,” the Prime Minister said.
He added that India is working closely with international partners and global leaders to address supply chain challenges affecting fuel and energy resources.
Warning Against Hoarding and Black Marketing
The Prime Minister also urged state governments to strengthen monitoring mechanisms to prevent hoarding and black marketing of LPG cylinders during the crisis.
He warned that strict action would be taken against those trying to exploit the situation.
“It is important that everyone acts responsibly during such times,” he said.
Government Assures No Fuel Shortage
Earlier in the day, the government reassured Parliament that there is no shortage of petrol, diesel, kerosene or aviation turbine fuel in the country despite the ongoing crisis in West Asia.
Addressing the Lok Sabha, Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri said ensuring uninterrupted LPG supply to households remains the government’s top priority.
He highlighted that over 33 crore families, particularly the poor and underprivileged, depend on LPG for cooking, and the government is committed to protecting their access to fuel.
“This is not the moment for rumour-mongering or fake narratives. India is navigating the most severe global energy disruption in recorded history,” Puri said.
LPG Production Increased and Refineries Running at Full Capacity
The minister said domestic LPG supply is fully protected, with the delivery cycle remaining unchanged.
He also noted that LPG production in India has been increased by 28 per cent, while refineries across the country are operating at very high capacity utilisation, in some cases exceeding 100 per cent output.
Crude oil supplies continue to flow, and the government has prioritised gas supply for households and agricultural needs, he added.
Strait of Hormuz Disruption Fuelling Crisis
The global energy crisis has intensified after Iran halted the movement of oil and gas tankers through the Strait of Hormuz, following a joint attack launched by United States and Israel on February 28.
The strategic waterway handles nearly 20 per cent of the world’s crude oil, natural gas and LPG shipments, making the disruption a major concern for global energy markets.
India Seen as Key Global Partner
Highlighting India’s growing global influence, Modi said international leaders increasingly view the country as a crucial partner in the future global order.
“The world knows that if they want to be part of the future, they must connect with India. Many global leaders see India becoming the centre of gravity of the world,” he said.
However, he added that such recognition also brings greater responsibility for India to manage global challenges effectively.